What is an Osteoporosis Screening?

Osteoporosis risk is determined by measuring the bone mineral density of your heel. The heel is measured because its bone is similar to that found in the hip, where fractures occur most often. Bone mineral density is a predictor of skeletal strength and fracture risk, especially when considered along with other factors such as gender, age, and family history. The osteoporosis screening simply requires you to place your foot in a painless ultrasound device called a bone densitometer and the bone mineral density of your heel will be measured.